Learning about the cause, symptoms, and long-term effects of the older person's condition

Anticipating changes in the older person and in the level of care the older person needs

Letting the older person make decisions and solve problems as much as possible

Knowing their own limits

Not taking the older person's anger, frustration, or difficult behaviors personally (these behaviors may be symptoms of a disorder such as dementia)

Avoiding arguments and learning how to redirect difficult conversations

Discussing responsibilities with other family members and friends, then asking them to help when appropriate and possible

Discussing feelings and experiences with a friend, someone who has had similar experiences, or people in a support group

Eating and exercising regularly and getting enough sleep

Scheduling regular time for relaxing, enjoyable activities

Obtaining information about the older person's financial resources

Avoiding depleting personal finances

Contacting organizations that can provide information and referrals for caregivers

Using day care Day Care for Older People Day care for older people may involve Treating a problem Maintaining the person's condition Providing social activities or mental health care (such as group therapy) People can go to day care... read more or respite care Respite Care Respite care involves providing temporary care for an older person so that the regular caregiver can have a break. In the United States, over half of states have respite programs. Programs may... read more to get a temporary break when needed

Hiring a home health aide or health care practitioner, such as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or nurse's aide, to help if needed

Talking to a counselor, therapist, or member of the clergy if needed

Remembering that an assisted-living facility Assisted–Living Communities Assisted-living communities are designed for people who need some help with daily activities (for example, with bathing, dressing, or taking their medications as prescribed). These communities... read more or a nursing home Nursing Homes Nursing homes are for people who need help with health care for chronic conditions but do not need to be hospitalized. The decision to move to a nursing home may be triggered by a change in... read more may be the best option